Rivalry-Respect… unspoken code of Nigeria’s music industry — Saturday Magazine — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

Rivalry in music industry has been a recurring occurrence throughout history. From John Lennon to Paul McCartney, Tupac Shakur to Biggie Smalls, whether manufactured for publicity or based on genuine tension, competition between artistes often attracts significant media attention and fans’ interest.

Stan wars (overzealous fans internet conflict) have been a driving force on social media for the past decade, instigating streaming battles, hashtag wars, and fan edits. Overzealous fans group (stans) argue with other groups of stans. However, beneath the surface of these rivalries lies a code of respect that defines the industry’s dynamics.

In Nigeria, rivalry has been a driving force behind the creativity and innovation that define the industry. Artistes have consistently pushed themselves to outdo one another, experimenting with new sounds, styles and themes.

This rivalry between artistes has also fueled the development of unique personalities and brand identities. For instance, the contrasting styles of Wizkid and Davido have helped to differentiate them in the market, with Wizkid’s more laid-back, soulful approach contrasting with Davido’s high-energy, street-oriented vibe.

Funke Akindele, in her Prime Video series, titled, She Must Be Obeyed, offers a window into rivalries that often emerge among Nigerian successful music, especially in the Afrobeats genre. It also unveils the cutthroat rivalries and backstabbing activities the artistes engage in, all to outshine one another and protect their top positions.
Respect: The Glue That Holds Industry

While rivalry drives innovation, respect is the glue that holds industry together. Nigerian artistes have consistently demonstrated a deep respect for one another’s talents, contributions, and achievements. This respect has fostered a sense of community and camaraderie, with artistes often collaborating, supporting, and celebrating one another’s successes.

According to a music expert, Joey Akan, “the Nigerian music industry is built on a foundation of respect and camaraderie. Artistes may compete for awards and accolades, but at the end of the day, they recognise the value and contribution of their peers.”

One notable example is the perceived rivalry between Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun (Wizkid) and David Adedeji Adeleke Jnr. (Davido), two of Nigeria’s biggest music stars.

Their supposed feud has been the subject of much speculation and debate, with fans often taking sides. However, despite their differing styles and career paths, both artistes have consistently shown respect for each other’s craft.

Also, the respect between artistes has also helped to promote a culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing. Established artistes like Innocent Ujah Idibia (Tuface, later 2Baba); Oladapo Daniel Oyebanji (D’banj), and Collins Ajereh well known as Don Jazzy have taken younger artistes under their wing, providing guidance, support, and valuable industry insights.

In a 2020 interview, Wizkid praised Davido’s work ethic and dedication to his music, saying, “Davido is a hard worker, and I respect that about him.”

Davido, in a similar manner, publicly acknowledged Wizkid’s influence on the Nigerian music scene, stating, “Wizkid is a legend, and I’m honoured to be mentioned alongside him.”

This mutual respect is not limited to Wizkid and Davido. Other notable artistes, such as Olamide, Tiwa Savage, and Burna Boy, have also demonstrated a deep respect for their peers and the industry as a whole.
(To be continued)

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